Upcoming TLDs / .hack
Can you register a .hack domain?
Source: ICANN 2026 round applications, checked October 27, 2026. Not in the IANA root zone as of October 26, 2026.
What .hack would mean
In their own words, from the public part of each application (question 118):
Hack commonly refers to a broadly recognized term used across a wide range of contexts.
clever work around
A hack can mean a clever or improvised solution or the act of experimenting with systems. In computing, it can refer to probing, modifying, or testing software or hardware, with legality depending on authorization and purpose.
Who applied for .hack
Acid Medal, LLC
US, stage: Pre-Evaluation Processing
The mission of .HACK is to provide a namespace associated with the applied-for string. The .HACK gTLD is intended to serve a broad range of registrants and users, including individuals, businesses, organizations, communities, projects, and other entities that identify with, relate to, or wish to be associated with the concept represented by the applied-for string.
Link Freedom Group / LFG
Link Freedom Group Ltd, MT, stage: Pre-Evaluation Processing
Link Freedom Group (LFG) aspires to become a best-in-class, vertically integrated domain name registration authority, see linkfreedomgroup.link. This TLD is part of a carefully curated portfolio of strings that LFG intends to pursue in ICANN’s 2026 New gTLD Program. In assembling this portfolio, LFG focused on securing meaningful, memorable, and commercially compelling strings that resonate strongly with end users and offer long-term growth potential.
Oinkadot Inc
US, stage: Pre-Evaluation Processing
The mission of .HACK is to create a distinctive namespace for ethical hacking, cybersecurity, responsible security research, technology, innovation, and creative problem-solving. The word "hack" has established meanings extending from the exploration and improvement of technology to clever or unconventional solutions to everyday problems, giving .HACK relevance across professional, educational, technical, maker, and creative communities.
What happens next
- April 30, 2026: Application window opened (done)
- August 12, 2026: Application window closed (done)
- October 7, 2026: Reveal Day: ICANN published every applied-for string (done)
- October 21, 2026: Replacement period ended (applicants could switch to a backup string) (done)
- November 17, 2026: String Confirmation Day: the final list of applied-for strings
- March 16, 2027: Community input and objections period ends
Dates from ICANN’s Reveal Day announcement, checked October 27, 2026. We re-check the applications every day and this page changes when they do.
When will .hack be available?
ICANN has not set a date. The final list of applied-for strings comes on String Confirmation Day (November 17, 2026), community input and objections run until March 16, 2027, and ICANN processes applications after a prioritization draw in 2027. Registration opens only after ICANN delegates .hack and its registry announces launch dates.